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What is Integrative Biology?

Dee Saale
Dee Saale
Dee Saale
Dee Saale

Integrative biology is the study and research of biological systems. It does not simply involve one discipline, but integrates a wide variety of disciplines that work together to find answers to scientific questions. For example, biological sciences, engineering, physical sciences, and social sciences are all incorporated to address specific biological issues.

The interrelationships that occur between organisms and their environment are often studied through integrative biology. Specific research may involve genetics or environmental studies, yet the goal is always to solve a larger, biological problem. Although it always focuses on live organisms, the focus can vary from the smallest, molecular studies to broader studies of the biosphere.

People who study integrative biology may have a career in research or academia.
People who study integrative biology may have a career in research or academia.

Those who study and make a career out of integrative biology have a wide range of knowledge. They can consider themselves behaviorists, geneticists, physiologists, ecologists, paleontologists, and evolutionary biologists, just for starters. They can have a career in research or in academia. They can spend their time out in the field collecting data and specimens or teaching students in a university classroom. They can also continue on and receive additional degrees in medicine, veterinary medicine, dentistry, sociology, law, and psychology.

Individuals who choose to study integrative biology may have a career in research or academia.
Individuals who choose to study integrative biology may have a career in research or academia.

There are undergraduate and graduate level programs. Most undergraduate programs in integrative biology begin with an emphasis in the fundamental science and mathematics classes, such as introductory biology, chemistry, calculus, and physics. Upper level courses usually cover more detailed topics, such as integrative anatomy, genetics, behavior, environmental biology, and evolution.

Integrative biology is ideal for the person who does not want to focus on only one discipline.
Integrative biology is ideal for the person who does not want to focus on only one discipline.

It is common for both undergraduate and graduate students to partake in laboratory or field courses related to integrative biology. The hands-on experience is thought to be one of the best teaching methods. It works to deepen the understanding of the students and helps them convert abstract terms into something more physical.

Many traditional disciplines are researched in new ways through integrative biology. For example, students and researchers often think of new issues and new questions. They also analyze old questions and develop new theories. Research includes a wide range of topics, such as how environmental stressors affect the genes in animals and plants.

Integrative biology is an interesting field of study. It is ideal for the person who does not want to focus on only one discipline. It allows for flexibility and a convergence of disciplines, more so than any other field of study. Not every college or university offers degrees in integrative biology; however, with the appropriate research, there are plenty of options.

Dee Saale
Dee Saale

Dee is a freelance writer based in Colorado. She has a B.A. in English Literature, as well as a law degree. Dee is especially interested in topics relating to medicine, legal issues, and home improvement, which are her specialty when contributing to AllTheScience.

Learn more...
Dee Saale
Dee Saale

Dee is a freelance writer based in Colorado. She has a B.A. in English Literature, as well as a law degree. Dee is especially interested in topics relating to medicine, legal issues, and home improvement, which are her specialty when contributing to AllTheScience.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

Testy

I have heard the argument that students who major in integrative biology really have no idea on what they want to do with their lives, and pick this major just so that they could graduate with a degree. I have also heard that this major is just a water-downed version of a more focused area of biology.

While I don't totally agree with this statement, I do know three or four people who majored in integrative biology because they weren't sure what they wanted to focus there careers on. And the vast amount of topics that they studied made them even more confused on their goals.

Could it be possible that integrative biology is too interdisciplinary?

Oski

@yogurtpark - I agree, 100%. I am a recently graduated college student, and one of my best friends majored in integrative biology.

Her intent coming into college was to immediately go to medical school after getting her bachelor's degree. After speaking with a counselor, she decided to major in integrative biology, since most of the classes she needed to take to apply to med school were required by the major.

After her second year, she started working in a genetic research lab, and completely fell in love with it. She now wants to dedicate her career into researching how and why genetic mutations develop.

Had she not majored in integrative biology, she might have still be on the track to attend medical school.

YogurtPark

For any student interested in the biological sciences, I think that majoring in integrative biology is the best way to go.

Any subject that can give students exposure to a wide array of subjects is very beneficial. I think the best way to make yourself marketable in today's society is to have a varying knowledge base and skill set.

I had classmates who majored in integrative biology in college, and I am amazed at the variety of areas in which they can apply their degree to.

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    • People who study integrative biology may have a career in research or academia.
      By: Darren Baker
      People who study integrative biology may have a career in research or academia.
    • Individuals who choose to study integrative biology may have a career in research or academia.
      By: nandyphotos
      Individuals who choose to study integrative biology may have a career in research or academia.
    • Integrative biology is ideal for the person who does not want to focus on only one discipline.
      By: Photographee.eu
      Integrative biology is ideal for the person who does not want to focus on only one discipline.